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Readers are wondering why the Attorney General of Panama, Kenia Porcell Díaz, refuses to respond to eight of Brazil's legitimate requests for information, regarding the Odebrecht bribery scandal, in that country, stating that she will not participate in an extremely general "fishing expedition," into Panamanian bank records, do not understand Panama's culture of corruption. Allow me to explain.
Attorney General Porcell was appointed by the Cabinet of Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela. Sr. Varela, when he held the position of Vice President, under the former administration of Ricardo Martinelli, was in charge of major construction projects, which included work that was done by Odebrecht. Panama insiders all confirm that he received illicit compensation, for approving construction projects for Odebrecht, and that, if Fiscal Porcell delivers the bank account details requested, that those documents will probably include illegal payments to Varela, directly or indirectly.
Alberto Diamond
Such a disclosure, coming on top of the Mossack and Fonseca, would definitely rock Panama to its foundations, and further confirm its status as a nation riddled with corruption and crime. That will deter new investment, and cause major capital flight. There's your answer.
Contributed by Kenneth Rijock
Chronicles of Monte Friesner
